Matthew 13:44

The Parable of the Hid Treasure, in this Gospel only

In ancient times, and in an unsettled country like Palestine, where there were no banks, in the modern sense, it was a common practice to conceal treasures in the ground. Even at this day the Arabs are keenly alive to the chance of finding such buried stores. The dishonesty of the purchaser must be excluded from the thoughtof the parable. The unexpecteddiscovery, the consequent excitement and joy, and the eagerness to buy at any sacrifice, are the points to be observed in the interpretation.

when a man hath found Here the kingdom of heaven presents itself unexpectedly, "Christ is found of one who sought Him not." The woman of Samaria, the jailer at Philippi, the centurion by the Cross.

selleth all that he hath This is the renunciation which is always needed for the winning of the kingdom, cp. ch. Matthew 10:38. Thus Paul gave up position, Matthew wealth, Barnabas lands.

buyeth that field Puts himself in a position to attain the kingdom.